Students in NDSU’s interior design program recently had the chance to compete in the Inspired Kitchens Design Challenge during this year’s Red River Valley Home & Garden Show.
Students worked in teams to re-imagine an outdated kitchen design that they then presented at the Home and Garden Show put on by the Building Industry Association of the RRV. The designs are being voted on by the public to determine the winning team, which will receive $2,000 in scholarship funds to be divided among the team members. The winning team will be announced on March 31.
Abeera Qarni, a junior interior design student, said she enjoyed the opportunities the design challenge provided.
“Participating in the Inspired Kitchens Design Challenge was a great experience. It was both challenging and rewarding to take a real client design problem and create a functional and aesthetically pleasing solution,” said Qarni, who is from Fargo. “My favorite part of the challenge was seeing our initial ideas evolve into a polished final design and receiving feedback from industry professionals.”
Qarni worked with interior design students Katie Jensen and Hope Stein on the project.
Together they created a coastal inspired design, bringing in clean lines, natural materials and airy elements representing the seaside. The design also balanced organic elements utilizing woven pendant lights, warm finishes, champagne bronze hardware and soft textiles.
Qarni said she enjoyed working with her peers in a team setting.
“We all brought different strengths to the table. Some of us excelled in technical drafting, while others focused on material selection and concept development. Together we created a design we were really proud of.”
Qarni and her team also worked with Jessica Holen from Accent Kitchen and Bath, as well as Krista Mund from BIA, who both provided their expertise.
Aletha Lippay, an assistant professor of practice in the interior design department, said it was an amazing opportunity to watch as the students put together presentations to walk the audience through their design process from start to finish.
“Each team presented polished design concept boards and full renderings, spoke professionally and in design terms that all could understand,” Lippay said. “It was a proud moment to watch their interior design training come to life in an industry-based experience that showcased their capabilities. It also showed strength and courage to present in front of an audience of strangers at the Fargo Dome, and each team did it with poise and skill. I was impressed with their designs and inclusive thinking focusing on their client’s needs, sustainable design, regional influences, cabinetry characteristics and functionality.”
Overall, the challenge allowed Qarni to strengthen her ability to communicate design concepts to an everyday audience, and she refined her material selection skills by picking out materials in person at Accent Kitchen and Bath.
“It was a great hands-on experience that reinforced the importance of teamwork and problem-solving in the design process,” she said.
The Inspired Kitchens Design Challenge is just one example of the real-world experience students have in NDSU’s interior design program. Throughout the program students tour design studios, architectural firms and product markets, meet industry professionals and complete internships that shape their education.
For those looking to receive a top-notch education with the professional development needed to excel in the workforce, NDSU’s interior design program is the perfect fit.
“My experience in the interior design program has been amazing. I love how hands-on and project-driven it is, allowing us to apply what we learn in a meaningful way,” Qarni said.
“The faculty are incredibly supportive and always encourage us to push our creativity while also preparing us for realistic industry expectations.”
Seize your moment by applying today or scheduling a visit.
